Like Joan Crawford embossed in eternal close-up with a paralyzed expression extravagantly imprinted on her puss, Streisand never looked more invincible than when feigning vulnerability for the camera; the scary determination behind the needy exterior is part of what makes them such beloved gorgons.

"I don't believe you have a bit of conscience," said Margaret to Carmen one Sunday, as they walked home from morning service, when Margaret had responded "extravagantly," as Carmen said, to an appeal for the mission among the city pagans.